The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is shrouded in uncertainty after Thursday's match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was called off midway following air raid alerts in the nearby cities of Jammu and Pathankot.
The decision raised concerns over player safety and the overall security situation amid the escalating India-Pakistan tensions.
The match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was officially called off during the first innings, with security concerns.
Following the abandonment of the match, rumors surfaced that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was preparing for an emergency meeting to assess whether it was safe to continue the IPL 2025 season.
In response to the rising tensions, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal told PTI on Thursday that the BCCI is awaiting government directives before making a decision on the league's future amid the military clash with Pakistan. However, he confirmed that Friday's match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru "is on as of now."
Following the abandonment in Dharamsala, players and support staff of both teams will be transported to Delhi via a special train from Pathankot, located about 85 km from the hill town.
The teams will travel to Pathankot by road. Dharamsala's lone airport, along with the ones in neighbouring Kangra and Chandigarh, are currently closed as part of precautionary measures to thwart potential Pakistani attacks.
On the other hand, Tehseen Poonawalla posted, "My sources tell me, FYI for now - BCCI meeting underway - IPL could be called off. First priority - to send foreigners home. As per a very reliable source."
However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified in a statement, as quoted by IANS, "There is no emergency meeting taking place. We are in different locations, and the only concern was the Dharamsala match, which we have decided to call off. Let's avoid spreading rumours."
West Indies Cricket also issued a statement confirming that they are closely monitoring the safety of their players in both the IPL and PSL.
Despite rising tensions in northern India, there has been no official word on the cancellation of IPL 2025. Matches in other regions are still set to take place, with no emergency meeting held by the IPL governing council.
The BCCI is monitoring the situation closely, with updates expected by Friday morning. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Super League's Rawalpindi match was called off due to a military attack, prompting the relocation of the PSL to Karachi.
With PTI Inputs
